
If you're out and about, the cheapest option is to hail a ride via a ride-sharing app such as Lyft, Uber or HoloHolo, Hawaii’s local ride-sharing company. TheCab and Charley's Taxi are the biggest local taxi companies. If you are at the airport or a hotel, taxis are easy to find in Honolulu, but you'll need to navigate the sluggish traffic, meaning fares can creep up.

Or drive east down Kalanianaole Highway for views of volcanic cliffs, white-sand beaches and powerful waves. Traffic can be a hassle downtown, but on two wheels, it's easy to escape the busyness of Honolulu and go mauka (mountain-side, the local terms for heading inland from the beach).įor a scenic taste of inland riding, take the winding roads to Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, where the heart-stopping views will compel you to stop and reach for your camera. If you are 16 years or older with a valid driver’s license, you can rent a moped, and explore Honolulu exposed to the balmy sunshine. Ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft also rent out vehicles.ĭowntown Honolulu's urban vibe ©John Seaton Callahan / Getty Images Moped and motorcycle For cheap deals, search sites like, , and 808 Smart Car Rentals, who offer energy-efficient Smart cars and discounted parking in Waikiki. Keep in mind though that most hotels in Honolulu charge for parking, and demand for on-street metered parking can outstrip supply on weekdays.Īll the big rental firms are represented in Waikiki and at the airport. When you need a break from downtown life, consider renting a car to explore the countryside, regional parks and beaches around Honolulu. The hop-on, hop-off tourist bus known as the Waikiki Trolley is a solid choice for getting to the main tourist attractions. While you can get to beaches and popular sites by bus, one downfall is that buses do not go to the trailheads for Honolulu hikes (a taxi or a rental car is the best option here).

You can pick up a pass at ABC stores, Times Supermarket and Foodland locations. If you are vacationing for several days, consider getting a HOLO pass you can charge the card with credit and use it to pay for bus rides, and the total daily spend on bus fares is capped at $5.50, even if you go right across the island. TheBus, the city’s public transportation system, is a reliable and easy way to get around, and fares are very affordable: journeys start at $2.75 one way. The Waikiki Trolley, the easy way to reach Honolulu's tourist sights ©Osugi / Shutterstock Bus
